In a bid to prevent a potential defection by Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dispatched a high-powered delegation to meet with him. This move underscores the party’s concern about losing one of its key state leaders to the opposition.
On Tuesday, a notable team of PDP leaders, including Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, former PDP Chairman Ahmed Makarfi, elder statesman Olabode George, and Senator Abdul Ningi, arrived in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Their mission was to convince Governor Fubara to remain within the party despite ongoing speculation about his political future.
Governor Fubara, who is battling for the political soul of the state with his former godfather and governor, Nyesom Wike, has been at the center of speculation regarding his allegiance to the PDP. For months, rumors have circulated suggesting that he might defect to another party, with many observers believing that his continued silence only fueled these speculations.
The visit by the PDP delegation was intended to address these concerns directly and ensure that Fubara remains with the party.
During the meeting, Governor Fubara expressed some uncertainty about his position within the PDP but acknowledged the importance of the delegation’s visit.
He stated, “But, so far, what is important this afternoon is that we are still members of the party, and the owners of the party have visited us.
“So, for those people outside who are carrying all sorts of rumour and propaganda, at least, this visit will put that propaganda to rest, and to tell the world that we are and we still remain members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).”
Senator Adolphus Wabara, the Chairman of the PDP’s BoT, articulated the party’s fears about potentially losing Rivers State to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Wabara expressed that the party was deeply concerned about the possibility of Rivers State shifting allegiance, which he described as a significant loss for the PDP and Nigeria as a whole.
“We were scared sir, when we heard or read speculations, perceptions or what have you, that the party, if we are not careful, might lose Rivers State. Of course, if we lose Rivers State, Nigeria has lost its future,” Wabara said.
Wabara also emphasised the party’s commitment to resolving the matter in a fair and lawful manner. He said, “We don’t want what happened in 2015, and 2023 to repeat itself.
“These men and women you see here are very neutral. But as the conscience of the party, we must go by the rule of law. And anything you do, going by the rule of law, can never be wrong. It may be delayed, but it cannot be wrong.”
The visit by the PDP delegation highlights the party’s strategic efforts to maintain its political base and manage internal challenges. By addressing the concerns of Governor Fubara and reassuring him of the party’s support, the PDP aims to reinforce its position in Rivers State and consolidate its strength ahead of future elections.
